Page is loading ...
Page 0 of 22
DXmic User Manual
Version 1
CLEAN WATER
Warning: This manual contains important safety and operating information.
Please read, understand and follow the instructions in the manual.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 1 of 22
Contents
DXmic Introduction and Key Features
3
Warnings
4
System Description
5
Optional Additional Equipment
6
DXmic Overview
7
Preparing the DXmic for Use
9
Using the DXmic
10
Filter Selection and Survey Mode
13
Survey Mode Screens
13
Minimum Level Profiling
15
MLP Mode Screens
16
Recording and Playback of Audio Samples
17
Guidance to Effective Acoustic Leak Detection
18
DXmic Technical Specification
20
Warranty
22
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 2 of 22
Introduction
The DXmic is an advanced, electronic ground microphone designed to amplify the noise generated by water
escaping from buried supply pipes under pressure. Identifying the position of the loudest leak noise indicates
the position of the actual leak itself.
The DXmic system comprises a lightweight portable amplifier module complete with battery charger, options
of wired or wireless (Bluetooth) headphones and an acoustically shielded ground microphone foot. As an
optional extra, a hand-held listening probe is available. This comes with a tripod foot and two probe rods for
sounding in soft ground.
The DXmic has a touch screen LCD display and the advanced, easy-to-use features of the DXmic enable the
operator to pinpoint leaks faster and with more confidence than ever before.
Key features
• Sliding scale filter selection
• Backlit multi-function LCD touchscreen showing:
Graphical and digital noise levels
Dynamic sensitivity (signal strength)
Settings and operation mode
• Levels of leak noise can be recorded for comparison in a histogram profile, Minimum Level profiling
• IP65 enclosure
•Wired or wireless (Bluetooth) headphones with volume control (Option)
• Lightweight, easily portable system
•On / off button (Weatherproof)
• Versatile – ground microphone and hand probe configurations
• Military specification connectors
• Robust construction for field use
• Rechargeable batteries (up to 25 hours use)
•Ear protection filter for loud and sudden noises to protect the users hearing
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 3 of 22
Warnings
Lithium ion batteries
The batteries supplied and fitted to the DXmic units are rechargeable lithium ion. Do not short circuit or
overcharge these batteries. Any misuse of these batteries may result in explosion or fire. They must not be
used in any other application or used with any other equipment. Only batteries supplied by HWM Water must
be used.
FCC warning statement:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.
End users must follow the specific operating instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance. This
transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void
the user's authority to operate the equipment
Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and
maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio
interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically
radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une
antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie Canada.
Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut
choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne
dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de
licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire
de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le
brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 4 of 22
System Description
Control unit – robust for field conditions
The DXmic is easily portable, and can be carried by either hand or shoulder-strap. Its injection-moulded
housing is purpose-designed to provide long-term field durability and effective protection under realistic site
conditions and is environmentally rated to IP65.
The control unit has a membrane On/Off button, with push-key operation, and a backlit multifunction
touchscreen LCD display. The interface to the headphones, charger and USB port are environmentally
protected to IP65. The connection to microphone is via military-specification connector.
Versatile leak noise sensing
The acoustically shielded ground microphone foot provides isolation from airborne noise interference and can
therefore be used in wet and windy conditions.
Standard equipment list:-
1. DXmic module with adjustable carry strap.
2. Acoustically shielded ground microphone foot.
3. Wired or wireless headphones.
4. Lithium ion battery pack and battery charger.
5. Carry case.
6. Cables.
7. Manual.
NOTE: Original XMic to sensor connection is not compatible with DXmic.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 5 of 22
Optional Additional Equipment
A handheld sensor unit can be added to the system as an option, providing the operator with the facility to use
this as a smaller ground microphone with its tripod; or to use it with probe rods to sound fittings in deep
chambers or to use in soft ground.
Equipment list including optional extras:-
1. Control/amplifier module with adjustable carry strap.
2. Combined hand probe and ground microphone with integral cable.
3. Two 400mm stainless steel rods.
4. One short legged tripod.
5. Wireless headphones.
6. Lithium ion battery pack and charger.
7. Portable car charger cord.
8. Carry case.
9. Cables.
10. Manual.
DXmic with optional
handprobe and tripod
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 6 of 22
DXmic Overview
Number
Description
1
On/Off button
2
Settings
3
Microphone gain control
4
High pass filter mode
5
Low pass filter mode
6
No filter mode
7
Adjust band width
8
Adjust band position
9
Minimum level profiling mode
10
Carry strap
11
Headphone volume control
12
Mute
13
Battery charge state
14
Charging LED
9
6
2
1
11
4
7
8
3
12
13
14
5
10
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 7 of 22
Number
Description
14
Sensor connection
15
USB port
16
Charging connector
17
Headphone jack
18
19
20
Battery compartment
Connector cover
Headphone cover
18
14
15
16
17
20
19
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 8 of 22
Preparing the DXmic for Use
The battery pack for the DXmic is supplied within the control unit.
Battery charging
To charge the batteries, lift the rubber connector cover cap the charge lead from the charger to the battery
charging connector on the top of the DXmic. Plug the charger unit into the mains supply.
Note that the battery will not charge through the USB port.
While the batteries are charging with the device in standby, the charging LED on the front of the DXmic will be
flashing red. This only goes out when the batteries are fully charged. The time required to charge the batteries
from is flat is approximately 8 hours.
The On/Off switch can be pressed while the unit is on charge to see how much charge is in the batteries at
any time, however, the DXmic MUST be switched back off again in order to resume charging. When fully
charged the battery icon located in the top right corner of the screen will appear completely dark.
Firmly push the rubber connector cover back into position to protect the connectors when not in use.
NOTE: You can only charge the DXmic between 0C - 45C.
Battery replacement
Although the batteries are rechargeable, they may eventually need to be replaced.
Only batteries configured to the correct specification and type must be used, these are available from HWM
Water.
To replace the batteries, switch the unit off and unscrew the six screws on the underside of the unit using a
2mm hex socket (Allen Key). Unplug the battery connector by depressing the connector locking mechanism
and remove the battery pack. Connect the new battery pack, then replace the cover using the six screws and
lightly tighten to 0.3Nm.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 9 of 22
Using the DXmic
Select the sensor attachment required, either the acoustically shielded ground microphone foot, or the
optional handheld microphone unit with probe rods or tripod, which must be screwed into the bottom of the
microphone housing.
Microphone foot warning
The Microphone foot has a sensor attached that can be seen from the bottom of the unit. Users must not
attempt to unscrew this sensor as this will break internal components of the microphone resulting in
irreparable internal damage. Sensor replacement is then the only option. Any necessary repair or dismantling
of the foot must be carried out by HWM Water or by an authorised distributor.
If the sensor does become loose it should be tightened manually so that it is “finger tight". Excessive force will
cause damage.
Hand probe
For normal soft ground surfaces the single pointed extension rod should be connected - do not over-tighten
the screw thread. For direct contact with underground fittings via access covers it may be necessary to use
the second extension rod. To do this, remove the single rod and connect the extension rod - replacing the
pointed rod again. If the rods have been over-tightened, spanner slots allow easy removal.
Ensure headphones are paired / connected.
DXmic Controls
The DXmic is fitted with a LCD touchscreen for fingertip operation. Avoid operating with hard or sharp material
such as a ball point pen or a mechanical pencil except a polyacetal pen (tip R0.8mm or less).
DXmic Switch On/Off
Switch the unit on with a long (2 sec) press of the On/Off button on the front of the DXmic. The unit will switch
on and remain switched on until this same button is long pressed again, or is left unused for a long period of
time. (Approximately 1 hour from last interaction).
Sensor: Do NOT attempt to unscrew
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 10 of 22
Headphone Controls
Once paired the headphones will remain on. To switch them off press the mute button as
shown left, found in the top right of the main display screen. When muted the button appears
green. To adjust the volume, use the + and – buttons either side of the headphone icon, on
the right-hand side of the screen.
High Contrast Display
You can view the LCD display in high contrast where the screen appears black and white. To do this, select
Settings, and then Display. Here you can adjust the brightness, select high contrast, or choose to invert the
high contrast colours.
Headphone pairing
The DXmic is compatible with wireless Bluetooth headphones. To pair your headphones with the device, go to
‘Settings’ and select ‘Bluetooth’. Switch Bluetooth ‘ON’ and press ‘Pair’. Set headphones into pairing mode by
holding down the power button until the LED flashes red and green, and the headphones will audibly say
‘Pairing’. Press ‘OK’ and select your headphones from the display list. The Bluetooth display will now read
‘Status: Connected’.
NOTE: If you use other headphones, the pairing mode may be different. Refer to manual for headphones.
When headphones are paired, a small headphones icon will appear in the top left corner of the display screen.
ON
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 11 of 22
Alternatively, you can plug wired headphones into the headphone jack located under the rubber headphone
cover on top of the DXmic control unit to listen to audio. You can later temporarily mute the headphones by
pressing the ‘mute’ button on the main display screen. Firmly push the rubber headphone cover back into
position to protect the jack when not in use.
Gauge view
It is possible to have an alternate view of survey mode (the main display screen) as a gauge with needle. To
do this, tap the graph in the centre of the screen and the display will change. Tap once again to change back
to the graph and bar view.
Hearing Protection Feature
The DXmic has built–in functionality designed to turn off the headphones’ output in case of sudden loud
noises which could damage the hearing.
To adjust hearing protection, go to ‘Settings’ and select ‘Audio’. Then switch hearing protection ‘ON’ and
select the threshold you want.
The hearing protection filter has three different threshold settings:
1. LOW – cuts the output at level 70, re-enables at level 60
2. MID - cuts the output at level 80, re-enables at level 70
3. HIGH - cuts the output at level 90, re-enables at level 80
ON
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 12 of 22
Filter Selection
To clarify the leak noise, background or unwanted noise frequencies can be filtered out using a combination of
the controls on the DXmic. Unwanted frequencies can be filtered out via the bandpass, bandwidth and filter
position buttons.
There are two modes of operation – survey mode and minimum level profiling mode (MLP)
Survey Mode
In survey mode, the gain level can be adjusted for optimum volume and the filters can be adjusted to reduce
unwanted ambient noise. To locate the position of an underground leak the microphone is placed on the
ground above the line of the suspect pipe and the readings observed.
All filter settings are located along the bottom edge of the main display screen.
Survey Mode Screens
Unfiltered Noise
This is the initial default screen, which
appears when the DXmic is switched on.
This screen shows when no filters are applied.
The frequency spectrum indicator bar
shows that all frequencies are available.
Unfiltered noise reset button.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 13 of 22
Preset Filter for High Frequencies Only.
Used on metal pipes
High pass filter button
Preset for Filter for Low Frequencies.
For Plastic (medium density polyethylene (MDPE)) pipes.
The frequency spectrum indicator bar
shows both medium and low frequencies
are allowed through.
Low pass filter button
Adjustable Filters – Bandwidth
The bandwidth of the frequencies
allowed through can be adjusted using
the double-headed arrow buttons. The
dark blue section of the frequency
spectrum indicator bar will either
become wider or narrower.
Expand bandpass
Reduce bandpass
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 14 of 22
Adjustable Filters – Bandpass Centre Frequency.
The position of the centre frequency can be
adjusted up or down the spectrum using the
left and right arrows
Adjust position
MLP Mode
MLP (Minimum Level Profiling) is performed by stepping along the line of the suspect pipe and recording the
sound levels. The ground microphone is placed on the ground and the sample button pressed momentarily.
The DXmic then records the minimum noise over three seconds.
As each recording is made the histogram graph is built up showing the difference between each reading
visually and numerically, making noise level comparison a simple task.
For each sample taken a number appears to the right of the histogram. This noise level value is a relative
indicator for each sample. Once several readings have been taken the operator can select a sample by
pressing the < or > buttons either side of the graph. The numerical noise level value is then shown for each
sample.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 15 of 22
MLP Mode Screens
Once filters have been selected go to the MLP (Minimum Level Profiling) screen by pressing the ‘MLP Mode’
button in the bottom right hand corner, to carry out a leak noise comparison. The following screen will appear:
Date and time of recording
Navigate samples
Noise level indicator
Survey Mode
Delete sample
Selected sample Record sample
Delete all measurements
Each time the red record ‘Take sample’ button is pressed , the leak noise aquired in the previous three
seconds is recorded and displayed as a vertical bar on a histogram. In the example above, eleven
consecutive readings have been taken by stepping the ground microphone along the length of the pipe and
pressing the sample button at each position. This indicates the greatest leak noise acquired and the probable
position of the leak.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 16 of 22
Recording and Playback of Audio Samples (DXmic Pro only)
To start an audio sample recording press the red microphone button. Up to two minutes of sound can be
recorded per sample. The recording can be stopped by pressing the stop button. The audio recording will
appear in the bar graph, an “audio sample” symbol with recording length will appear under the noise level
indicator.
To playback an audio sample navigate the bar graph and select a sample with audio recording and press the
play button. The playback will loop when the end of the recording is reached. It is possible to stop or pause
the playback at any time.
During playback it is possible to access the filter selection screen and modify the filter configuration.
Warning: deleting samples with an audio recording also deletes the audio recording.
Touch Screen Calibration
To calibrate the touch screen turn off the DXmic by pressing the push button for three seconds. Push the
button again to turn on the device. Keep the button pressed until after the splash screen disappears, the
calibration screen will appear. Tap the flashing dots as accurately as possible to complete the calibration
process.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 17 of 22
Guidance to Effective Acoustic Leak Detection
All acoustic leak detection methods are based on the premise that normal water passage through pipelines
takes place noiselessly. When the water passage is disturbed a noise is created. Causes can include partial
pipe blockages, sudden changes in pipe diameter, abrupt changes in pipe direction, pumps or meters installed
in the pipeline, consumer usage or pipeline damage. Pipeline damage can include holes, cracks or splits,
complete pipeline rupture, leaking joints or leaking valves.
Careful application of leak detection techniques will enable the operator to eliminate detected noises
generated by poor pipeline design or consumer usage and to identify leakage due to pipe system damage.
The strength and clarity of noise generated by leaks will be affected by the water pressure, the size and shape
of the orifice allowing leakage, the type of ground material around the pipeline, the type of ground cover over
the pipe, the diameter, wall thickness and material of the pipeline and the quantity of water leaking.
A small orifice or hole and high water pressure generally produces a higher frequency noise. Often the noise
level increases around valves, pipe elbows, T-connections and pipe ends, etc… since the partial obstruction
increases pressure and creates some further disturbance in the water path.
Leak noise is transmitted along the pipeline both through the water and the pipe wall as well as into the
ground around the pipe. The noise travels much better through "hard" materials: further along metallic pipes
than asbestos cement pipes which themselves are better than plastic pipes. Ground material generally
provides a poorer travel path than the pipeline itself. Soft sandy ground provides a worse travel path than well
compacted ground with a hard-paved surface covering.
The leak noise can change in strength and pitch as it travels along the pipe or through the ground. The deeper
the pipe is buried and the softer the ground the more the noise will be dampened.
When a leak is produced in a metallic pipe the leak noise will transmit well through the pipe. It does not travel
so well through a plastic pipe. This means that a leak noise can be heard further away on metal than on
plastic. Also bear in mind that the further you go from a leak noise source the more difficult it is to pinpoint that
leak noise accurately.
Background noise can interfere with leak detection. Traffic and machinery noises can travel for considerable
distances through both air and ground material and often occur in the same frequency bands as leak noise.
Sometimes it is necessary to use leak detection techniques at night when interfering noises are less.
It is very important to adopt a methodical approach when using any instrument for acoustic leak detection. It is
necessary to practice the technique in order to distinguish between different sounds, recognising background
or interfering noises, so that they can be eliminated. It is also essential that other (non-leakage) system noise
sources such as consumer draw-off or partially closed valves be eliminated by logical site inspection practices
prior to any excavation taking place.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 18 of 22
Surveying
The leak location can be narrowed down by listening at accessible contact points such as meters, hydrants,
valves and stop-taps. These provide good points of sound pick-up, particularly if the pipe is metallic. Use the
hand-probe/extension rod to listen at these points.
If there are no accessible contact points or if the pipe is of non-metallic material, use the microphone foot for
listening, placing the foot over the pipe route in the area of the suspected leak. Move along the pipe route
listening at each accessible pipefitting
Or at regular positions on the ground until you have identified the area of maximum noise level.
Note: When you are listening on pipe-fittings the location of the point of maximum noise will probably not
indicate the leak position, only the fitting closest to the leak. The noise level will also appear stronger where
there is less thickness of ground or other material for it to pass through. The leak noise will follow the path of
least resistance.
Pinpointing the leak position
Pinpointing the leak position involves a process of comparing a number of leak noises. Select the most
suitable sensor device; the microphone foot for hard ground surfaces or the hand probe for soft ground.
Operate the ground microphone and adjust the headphone volume control to a comfortable listening level.
Once you have listened to the noise through the headphones, mute the headphones and move the
microphone foot or hand probe to the next test position.
Repeat the sequence to listen to each of the test locations moving along the pipe route in the direction where
signal strength is increasing. If the leak noise level falls you have passed the leak and should go back and
reduce the distance that you move between measurements. The loudest leak noise will then indicate the
location of the leak bearing in mind the ground conditions already mentioned.
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
Page 19 of 22
DXmic Technical Specification
Control Unit
Processor: 144MHz 32 bit
Input impedance: 1MOhm
Output impedance: 6 to 16 Ohms
Amplification: 46dB
Frequency range: 20 to 5200Hz
Distortion: Better than 1%
Battery: 2 x Lithium ion 1.8Ah rechargeable batteries
Battery life: Minimum 15 hours (with maximum backlight)
Minimum 25 hours (with power saving)
Battery charge: Maximum 8 hours
Charger: Universal 110-240V AC mains charger with 12V DC output
Weight: 600g
Dimensions: 193mm x 109mm x 60mm
Environmental rating: IP65
Operating temperature range: -15C - 50C
Operating humidity: 0 – 95% non-condensing
Connection: Military specification Amphenol
Keypad: LCD Touchscreen
Display: 5’’ TFT LCD
Signal level display 0 – 100
LEIF KOCH A/S • Rugvænget 31 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Telefon: (+45) 7023 9898
info@leifkoch.dk • www.leifkoch.dk • CVR: DK 78 06 64 15
/
